Question

In which phase is penicillin produced?

• A. Lag phase
• B. Log phase
• C. Exponential phase
• D. Stationary phase

Hint:

Penicillin production is typically associated with the stationary phase of microbial growth, where cells shift towards producing secondary metabolites.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Penicillin is produced during the stationary phase of microbial growth. During this phase, the growth rate slows down due to depletion of nutrients or accumulation of waste products, and the cells begin to produce secondary metabolites such as penicillin.
(1) Lag phase: The lag phase is when cells are metabolically active but not dividing. Penicillin production does not occur in this phase.
(2) Log phase: The log phase (exponential phase) is when cells are actively dividing. Penicillin production is minimal in this phase.
(3) Exponential phase: In this phase, cells grow rapidly, but penicillin production is not at its peak.
(4) Stationary phase: This is the correct phase where penicillin production increases as the microbial growth slows and cells start to produce secondary metabolites like penicillin.
Conclusion: The correct answer is Option 4: Stationary phase because penicillin is produced during this phase.